Each primary school aged student in the shire received a native tree, courtesy of Gloucester Shire Council, to mark National Tree Day.

At the high school, council donated trees to the school farm project.

As well the tree, each student was received an information sheet on the benefits of using local native trees and how to plant their new tree successfully.

Council also gave away native trees to local residents at the administration centre last Friday.

“Gloucester Shire Council is proud to be part of National Tree Day and support each of our schools students with the provision of local native trees that contribute to creating a healthy environment in our local area” said Mayor Julie Lyford.

National Tree Day promotes the importance of using local native plants, including trees, shrubs and ground covers to create, maintain and support a healthy environment. Local native plants are adapted to local conditions, do not need to be watered as often as introduced plants, are a great way to create a habitat area in your own garden whilst attracting a large range of wildlife, especially birds to your backyard.

Entering its 14th year, National Tree Day, coordinated by Planet Ark, has to-date seen more than 13.4 million native trees and shrubs planted around Australia. This year the nation celebrated with Schools Tree Day on Friday July 31 and National Tree Day on Sunday August 2.